The 3rd annual event started as part of the Bibb Administration’s commitment to modernizing City processes
Monday, March 24, 2025 — Cleveland — The City of Cleveland announced it will be hosting its 3rd annual “Food Truck Rodeo” starting on Tuesday, March 25. The event will serve as a one-stop-shop for the permitting needs of all food trucks and hot dog carts. The event will run from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Tuesday through Friday on East Mall Drive. Local business owners who receive a permit at the event will be able to operate for a year in 10 different municipalities across Cuyahoga County.
“One of my commitments upon taking office was to make it easier for our local business owners to do business in the City. The Food Truck Rodeo is an innovative example of how we have adapted and simplified our processes in City Hall to better meet the needs of our small business community,” said Mayor Bibb. “This event has grown from about 50 to approximately 100 food trucks in just the first two years and we expect to see even more this year. Come one come all!”
No appointments are necessary, but business owners are asked to bring proof of – a certified LP (Liquified Petroleum) pressure test, an LP safety course, and liability insurance. They should also bring a form of payment (card, check, or money order) to cover $150 in necessary costs for the permit and certificate of qualification to handle propane, which is required by the State of Ohio.
Upon arrival, business owners should enter East Mall Drive from St. Clair Avenue (between Mall B and Public Auditorium). They will then be directed as to next steps – which will include inspections of vehicles and equipment (e.g. CO detectors, extinguishers, ventilation, etc.), and completing necessary documentation to obtain a permit. The City of Cleveland’s Division of Fire, Department of Public Works, Division of Assessments & Licenses, and Department of Public Health will be on-site to assist business owners throughout the process.
Once they receive a permit, business owners will be approved to operate for an entire year in Bedford Heights, Cleveland, Cleveland Heights, Cuyahoga Heights, Euclid, Fairview Park, Garfield Heights, Rocky River, Shaker Heights, and Warrensville Heights. The Parma Fire Department will also be on-site to assist with their own permitting process.
“The level of interest in our Food Truck Rodeo has grown tremendously – so much so that other fire departments have reached out to learn our system to host similar ‘Rodeos’ in their cities,” said Lt. David Telban, Fire Marshal for the Cleveland Division of Fire. “We look forward to hosting another successful event this year and welcome everyone with open arms.”
Business owners who have questions about the event should contact the Cleveland Fire Prevention Bureau at fireprevention@clevelandohio.gov or (216)-664-6867.
